Five things South Africans should do before Sunday’s severe storms

South Africans in areas facing severe storms have been urged to take precautions as the South African Weather Service (SAWS) maintains an Orange Level 5 warning for parts of Gauteng, Limpopo and Mpumalanga until Sunday night.

The warning raises the risk of flooding, falling trees, power disruptions and damage to homes, vehicles and infrastructure.

Households should prepare for possible disruptions and take steps to protect their families and property before the storms arrive.

Here are five things residents should do to prepare for Sunday’s severe storms

Clear gutters and stormwater drains

Remove leaves, rubbish and other debris from gutters and drainage areas around your home.

Blocked drains can prevent rainwater from flowing away properly and increase the risk of water entering properties.

Residents in flood-prone areas should also identify safer routes and places on higher ground.

Secure loose objects outside your home

Bring garden furniture, refuse bins, outdoor equipment and other loose objects indoors or secure them properly.

Strong winds accompanying thunderstorms can move unsecured objects and cause damage to property.

Prepare an emergency kit

Keep essential supplies in one accessible place in case severe weather disrupts electricity or water supplies.

Your emergency kit should include:

• A torch and spare batteries.
• Drinking water and non-perishable food.
• Essential medication.
• A first-aid kit.
• A battery-operated radio.
• A fully charged cellphone and power bank.

Protect electrical appliances and important documents

Unplug sensitive electrical appliances before thunderstorms arrive, where it is safe to do so.

During lightning storms, stay indoors, avoid using electrical appliances and keep away from windows.

Never touch electrical equipment or attempt to switch off power if floodwater has already entered your home.

Know when to move to higher ground

Residents living near rivers, streams and flood-prone areas should watch for rising water levels.

Move to higher ground if flooding threatens your home and follow evacuation instructions from emergency services.

Never attempt to walk, swim or drive through flooded roads, bridges or fast-flowing water.

Follow official weather updates during severe storms

SAWS advises residents to take weather warnings seriously and monitor updates as conditions develop.

Residents should also follow instructions from municipal disaster management teams and emergency services.